Illinois Senate approves medical marijuana bill

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The medical marijuana proposal is being sent to Illinois Governor Pat Quinn for approval after being approved by Illinois lawmakers.

According to a spokesperson from the Marijuana Policy Project, the measure was approved Friday, May 17, 2013 by Illinois legislature. The bill will allow Illinois doctors to recommend medicinal marijuana for patients with serious illnesses.

The Senate vote was 35-21. They received the bill after it was passed in the House with a vote of 61-57 back in April.

Deputy director of government relations for the Marijuana Policy Project, Dan Riffle said this measure will create a tightly controlled system letting people with illnesses gain access to marijuana safely and legally.

“We are hopeful that Governor Quinn will join legislators and the vast majority of Illinois voters in supporting this proposal,” said Riffle. “Marijuana has proven medical benefits, regulating it works, and there is broad public and legislative support for doing it. This is a no-brainer.”

Patients who qualify for medical marijuana would be able to get it from one of 60 dispensaries.

Governor Quinn has said he is “open-minded” about signing the bill and the proposal has recently gained support from Lt. Governor Sheila Simon.
Washington, D.C. and 18 states have legalized medical marijuana.